My Style: Matthew Murphy
Photo: Courtesy of B Store
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Christophe Lemaire — although not a 'new' designer, there is definitely a comeback on the way. I strongly respect his eye for detail, subtlety, and silhouette. Also, a young London-based designer, Tim Soar, who creates sartorial but forward-looking collections.
Please describe your style in three words.
Refined with age.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not looking in the mirror before leaving your house.
Do you believe in role models?
No, but individual style with subtle hints of influences is okay.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Cotton twill and tweed wool.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Tracksuit bottoms with trainers.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
London, of course.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I believe I am a confident dresser.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
There should not be any rules; it all comes back to individual style.
Celebrities and style...
Does not often happen!
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Stripe oxford cotton shirts and neckerchiefs.
A man should always look like...
His age.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Films, musical icons, magazines and books.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
With thought.
Your biggest regret is...
Not traveling more when I was younger.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Utility and uniform.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I love a list prior to shopping; apart from that I like to generally find new things and places.
We will never see you wearing...
A cape or male skirt.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
My great uncle Arthur.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
The way he carries himself.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
David Bowie on stage from his HEROES tour.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
A white t-shirt.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Dries Van Noten and Margaret Howell double-breasted cotton blazers.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. A man with true style can wear the same pairs of jeans or chinos for many years; they look better and become more comfortable as they age. It's about collecting the key men’s wardrobe items and living with them.
Which designer/fashion house never fails to impress you?
Dries Van Noten.
Who would you like to see next in 'My style'?
Fashion photographer Mark Borthwick.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
Don't listen to advice.
